On the 15th day of the eighth month, 909, in Kyoto, the court gathered to view the moon. That tradition, O-Tsukimi, has even more ancient roots in China in the period of the Zhou Dynasty, 1122-256BC. Chinese mythology holds stories of Chang-e, the immortal goddess of the moon, who is able to fly with the aid of a magic elixir. The moon festival tradition is found in many other Asian cultures, tied to the Autumn full moon. It is a celebration of harvest and the season's change parallel to the equinox, which is based on a non-lunar calendar.
The Portland Japanese Garden's O-Tsukimi is sublime. We stroll the garden in the early evening. It is lit by candles in the stone lanterns. Shakuhachi and koto duo En play quietly. We consume hot green tea, hot saki, vegan sushi and mooncakes. Sitting watching the moon rise in front of the pavilion, overlooking the city, or strolling, we write poetry, which is tied to the branches of a small tree for all to read.
There are details at www.japanesegarden.com. The gardens are a walk up from the Rose Garden in Washington Park. Reservations required. $20 members, $25 non. 6:30-8:00PM.
